The US has signalled that the international community should “go beyond” a no-fly zone in Libya, suggesting military intervention for the first time.

Susan Rice, the US ambassador to the United Nations spoke ahead of a Security Council vote due today on the no fly zone being implemented to halt Col Gaddafi’s attacks on rebels.

While China, Russia, Germany and other members of the 15-member council have expressed opposition or doubts about military action in Libya, the United States said even stronger measures than a no-fly zone may be needed.

A draft resolution which includes a no-fly zone has been put forward for a vote on Thursday. Britain, France and the United States had acted “to put pressure on the council to act quickly and decisively,” said one diplomat, announcing the move.